The Old Quarter of Hanoi - Vietnam

Hanoi’s Old Quarter (Pho Co Ha Noi) is steeped in history and tradition. Located in the city centre of Hanoi, the Old Quarter was the key residential and commercial area where manufacturing took place to service the Thang Long Imperial Citadel in the 11th century. Today it still maintains its distinctive atmosphere of a time long since passed. 

The unique feature of the Old Quarter is its 36 streets dedicated to one specific trade or guild. Artisans from villages around the city used to gather in one area of their guild to sell their wares to merchants. The crafts or guilds of each area gave the names to the streets of the Quarter so that most streets names start with hàng (“wares”), for instance Hàng Mam Street (fish sauce street), Hàng Ma Street (fake money street) and Hàng Non-Street (hat street). 

One of the best ways to explore the Old Quarter is on a pedal-powered rickshaw (xich-lo). Sitting in the front of the single-seated rickshaw, the passenger slowly meanders through the Quarter, watching the production of crafts and traders selling their wares. The 36 streets are incredibly compact, and competition for space and customers is at the heart of its atmosphere. Throughout the journey, the passenger passes traditional architecture, ancient temples, and streets that change their name every hundred metres. The erratic traffic flow and seeming lack of road rules are almost unbelievable to watch and be amongst!  

On many levels, navigating these streets is educational. It’s incredible to see how people use confined areas creatively. Products are offered for sale from storefronts and along retaining walls. Bright colours and lights attract attention, and motorbike parks take over pedestrian walkways. Buildings are long and narrow to minimise taxes based on shop front widths. From a social aspect, the residents of the Old Quarter have little concept of privacy. They seem to switch off from the frenetic noise and activity around them, and yet they can push for a sale, spot a potential customer, and calmly face the reality that everyone else on their street is selling the same goods. 

Be immersed in the Old Quarter atmosphere by watching our short video clip. Enjoy the ride.

Ready to plan your next trip? Be in touch to discuss your school’s future travel program to Asia or New Zealand.